Hyderabad: Minister for Tourism, Culture and Excise Jupally Krishna Rao on Tuesday accused the Andhra Pradesh government of violating Srisailam power generation norms, alleging that power generation continued despite restrictions linked to reservoir levels.
Addressing a press conference at Gandhi Bhavan, Jupally said established rules clearly prohibit power generation once the reservoir reaches the minimum drawdown level of 834 feet (254.2 metres). However, he said these norms were being ignored, which affected Telangana’s irrigation and drinking water requirements.
He stated that the Srisailam power generation norms were designed to protect downstream needs. Yet, according to him, the Andhra Pradesh government continued operations in disregard of these guidelines.
Srisailam power generation norms violation affects water needs
Jupally said repeated representations made by Telangana to Andhra Pradesh did not yield any response. He described the approach of the neighbouring state as unresponsive despite continued concerns.
Moreover, he said elected representatives from the erstwhile Mahabubnagar district decided to organise a ‘Vanta-Varpu’ programme at Srisailam. The initiative, he added, aimed to highlight violations of Srisailam power generation norms and protect the interests of farmers and residents in the Krishna basin.
He said the programme was intended to draw attention to the impact on water availability. According to him, both irrigation and drinking water supply faced risks due to the continued power generation.
Srisailam power generation norms dispute prompts response
Jupally said the Andhra Pradesh government stopped power generation only after the issue was strongly raised. He reiterated that Telangana would continue to safeguard its rights and act firmly on such matters.
He further said concerns over Srisailam power generation norms were not new. Similar disputes had arisen in the past, including during the undivided Andhra Pradesh, when legal options were explored.
The Minister stressed that Telangana would not compromise on its rightful share of water. He said the government remained committed to protecting the interests of its people and would take all necessary steps to ensure compliance with established norms.